Merry Christmas to you all -- greetings from the beautiful French alps.

Last night, I left a party early to get back to see the Pats on the computer stream (kickoff 7 pm here). I missed the first quarter, which was probably just as well, but the second was tough too. Still, the guys pulled it out in the end and send me to bed with a big smile on my face.

And here's what I was doing this (Christmas) morning. As I type (5 pm here) my friend (in the background) is cooking a Christmas dinner for twelve of us. All I have to do is bring champagne and presents. May you all have an equally wonderful day.

Last night, after my son & daughter had gone to bed, the presents were placed, and the lights dimmed, I put on some nice soft music, poured a few fingers of whiskey, and sat alone by the tree for a bit. I just reflected on how lucky we all are. There's a great team we have, and this wonderful fan board with a good crew of commenters. The Patriots are in the playoffs, with a great chance of the #1 seed. Again.

For me, I feel privileged to be able to hang here. I'm a single parent, but the kids and I are together. My son is back from Afghanistan, and safe. We have a warm home, with food on the table, presents under the tree, clean clothes to wear, and good friends and neighbors.

And to top it all off, the JETS lost.

Merry Christmas, everyone, and may you all have a wonderful and prosperous New Year!